Oman

We have not been out of Abu Dhabi much since we arrived, but finally made it to Oman the other weekend. Muscat is known as a beach resort town, but instead of staying at one of the big resorts with a pool and ocean view we checked out 4 dodgy hotel rooms before settling into one we could be proud of... it had running water AND the a.c. worked.
These old men sat outside the hotel ALL DAY playing a game with stones in the sand and drinking tea.

The 'old town' was very beautiful with white washed buildings tucked into the mountain coast line. In the background you can see ancient stone forts overlooking the bay.
It was SOOOO HOT the only thing we could do during the day was drive around and peek at the coast line and the way people live. Most of the time I feel like these goats; hopping from one bit of shade to another. This is a soccer field (you have to look real close to see the goal post/nets) can you even imagine sending your kids off to play here? I miss Portland.

The other major attraction was an ancient covered market, which was surprisingly beautiful. It was also refreshing to see locals doing their shopping here instead of just tourists.

They might have to wear an abaya, but these girls are still flashing the bling however they can; sunglasses, Prada bags, and stiletto heels!

Aquafina.
This photo is for Amy.
They use boxes of 'kleenex' everywhere instead of napkins. This high class restaurant even had a box cover... in the shape of a sofa.